
We’ve heard “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” so often that I wonder if some people just ignore the phrase and go about their business. In this motto, I believe that “reduce” is the most life changing of them all. When we reduce what we bring into our lives as a whole, we become clear about what we really need and what we actually use.
It is having what we need, use, and love that brings us peace of mind, not insatiably wanting more things.
Now is the perfect time to reevaluate the areas in our lives where we can reduce unnecessary things. Minimalist living is only owning what you actually need and use that also brings absolute joy. Finding your own personal balance with this is key. You want to feel free from materialism, not deprived. As you begin to reduce your possessions, it will become easier as you go. This is especially true as you acknowledge all of the things that don’t add bliss into your life.
Every possession that we own holds an energy. Some of it is actually stagnant energy that we don’t even realize until we move it out of our space.
Clutter can disrupt the chi in your living space as well as in life by unconsciously draining your energy. Although tackling clutter can feel like an intense therapy session, the rewards are limitless. Instead of putting so much energy into having things, organizing them, and getting more, this same energy can go towards creativity, our relationships, and incredible life experiences.
Reducing possessions allows new space for abundant prosperity, clarity, new ideas, and invaluable time.
Abundant time and clarity are two of the most invaluable manifestations that I have gained from living a minimalist lifestyle. By removing all of the insane distractions, I have observed everything that was bringing me down and decided to choose something different. I have released previous unpaid obligations where I was overworking and bringing resentment into the situation because of it. I’ve put projects aside that have not been successful, and cleared out the space for new ideas to be born.
I’ve let go of jobs that brought more sadness, frustration, and tears, than the paycheck was worth once other projects finally blossomed.
The clarity and faith to choose another path would not have been possible for me if I had never really looked at what was actually vital to my own true happiness. I used to believe it had to do with having more of what “she” had. Now I know it has everything to do with only owning what brings me pure bliss. Her bliss may not be what will really bring me true joy anyway!
“Reduce, Reduce, Reduce” is the honest and rewarding minimalist philosophy.
(Image by Dawn Michelle)
Sandy says
This resonates with me.
I’ve known people to take all they have and then toss it out, to only start buying new things (thinking that they are doing a minimalist style) But then they start adding new things a few things at a time. Underlying this apparent minimalist look is actually staying in the acquiring mode.
That said, I’m not implying there is anything wrong with getting new things, but it seems that true creativity is nurtured, first, if you think about “reducing” before acquiring towards minimalism.
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Sandy,
Thanks so much for your comment! I always love to read what you have to say. Hope all is well!
Mia says
I’ve been getting rid of things. Every time I feel better about it. I’m moving at the end of next month and am overwhelmed. I’m hoping to feel some of the benefits you describe.
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Mia,
Good luck with your move and kudos for clearing out! Moving can feel extremely overwhelming. I shared a few things I did to elevate some of my own stress with my last move here. I hope this is helpful!
Kiss & Make-up says
This is exactly what I’ve been doing last week: getting rid of needless possessions. And it felt SO good.
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Kiss & Make-up,
Yes it does feel amazing! Good for you!!!